Key Points
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This paper suggests that the use of Alpron disinfectant may play a short term role in controlling microbial contamination of DUWLs.
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The methods described could be readily used in general dental practice.
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Dental staff and patients should benefit from the reduction in microbial loads in DUWLs.
Abstract
Aims To assess the efficacy of a disinfectant, Alpron, for controlling microbial contamination within dental unit water lines.
Methods The microbiological quality of water emerging from the triple syringe, high speed handpiece, cup filler and surgery hand wash basin from six dental units was assessed for microbiological total viable counts at 22°C and 37°C before and after treatment with Alpron solutions.
Results The study found that the use of Alpron disinfectant solutions could reduce microbial counts in dental unit water lines to similar levels for drinking water. This effect was maintained in all units for up to six weeks following one course of treatment. In four out of six units the low microbial counts were maintained for 13 weeks.
Conclusions Disinfectants may have a short term role to play in controlling microbial contamination of dental unit water lines to drinking water quality. However, in the longer term attention must be paid to redesigning dental units to discourage the build up of microbial biofilms.
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This study was supported by a grant from Alpron – Quality Water Specialists Ltd
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Smith, A., McHugh, S., Aitken, I. et al. Evaluation of the efficacy of Alpron disinfectant for dental unit water lines. Br Dent J 193, 593–596 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.4801635
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.4801635
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